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Sustainability and Historic Preservation

Historic preservation has long been in the forefront of sustainable development. Many historic buildings are inherently “green” in their materials and construction, and can have their energy efficiency maximized by sensitive retrofitting. Reinvestment in historic districts and communities promotes reuse of existing infrastructure and supports areas that generally are walkable and have good transit access options. When it comes to historic buildings, in most cases the greenest building indeed is the one already built. 

Because of its unique mission and structure, the ACHP can play a role in helping other federal agencies enhance their sustainability efforts. The ACHP brings together representatives of federal, state, tribal, and local interests, and this diverse membership is reflected in its efforts to mesh preservation goals with other public needs, including promotion of sustainable practices. For more information on the ACHP’s sustainability efforts and the role of preservation in sustainability, see:

ACHP Strategic Sustainability Performance Plan 

ACHP Task Force on Sustainability and Historic Preservation

ACHP Guidance on Sustainability and Federal Historic Buildings

Sustainability and Historic Preservation Links

Updated June 23, 2011

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